Modulation Technologies

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Modulation technologies have the ability to modify compressor performance and therefore perform more efficiently at different ambient temperatures. The capacity of the compressor changes to meet the cooling demand and therefore reduce energy consumption. Modulation technology leads to many benefits including increased humidity and temperature control, efficiency, reliability and comfort. Copeland Scroll compressors utilize this technology to offer the best possible solution for residential and commercial applications.

Multiple Compressors (Tandems/Trios)

Similar to other modulation approaches, tandems offer improved part-load efficiencies, including integrated Energy Efficiency Ratio (IEER) and Integrated Part Load Value (IPLV), while maximizing full-load efficiency. A user also has the option to 'tandemize' different compressor sizes commonly called un-even tandems which provides exceptional IPLV efficiencies. In addition, a Copeland Scroll Digital compressor can be 'tandemized' with a fixed capacity scroll compressor. This combination offers a very simple solution to deliver continuous capacity modulation while delivering precise humidity and temperature control. Copeland Scroll compressors range from 1-40 HP for single compressor configurations and 3-120 HP in tandem and trio configurations.

The Copeland Scroll UltraTech compressor is typically used on split and packaged systems under 5 HP. The compressor runs at either 67% or 100% capacity, depending on cooling/heating demand. When partial load is needed, bypass ports inside the compression chamber open which partially unloads the compressor. This allows the compressor to pump only the refrigerant needed to achieve 67% capacity, making this more efficient than hot-gas bypass. Field testing shows improved temperature and humidity control provided by Copeland Scroll UltraTech compressors compared to fixed compressors. But, more importantly, inside comfort levels are maintained, regardless of how hot or cold it is outside.​

Advantages:

Installation Costs: Less expensive than inverter systems or Copeland Scroll Digital systems, most cost effective method of modulation for systems under 5HP

Reliability: Comparable to fixed scroll systems

Efficiency: More efficient than hot-gas bypass, more efficient than inverters or Copeland Scroll Digital at 67% load

The Copeland Scroll Digital compressor utilizes axial scroll compliance to achieve modulation by forcing the scrolls to separate, causing compression of the refrigerant to stop without stopping the compressor motor. In this “unloaded” state, the compressor output is zero capacity. When the scrolls are engaged in the “loaded” state, compressor output is 100% capacity. The scrolls are separated in a periodic cycle (15 seconds) to obtain a time-averaged compressor capacity based on the ratio of loading and unloading times. This allows the compressor to achieve infinite capacity modulation between 10% and 100%.By offering a capacity range of 10%–100%, the Copeland Scroll Digital compressor doesn't need to start-stop as often as a traditional compressor. That means enhanced reliability and less maintenance because of the reduced wear and tear on the compressor.

Variable speed systems modulate refrigerant flow by varying the speed of the compressor motor. The compressor motor speed determines the refrigerant flow speed. Therefore, by varying the motor frequency, capacity can be modulated. Capacity output increases and decreases with motor speed. Although this allows precise temperature and humidity control, oil management hardware and electronics are needed to ensure enough oil is in the compressor during slow motor conditions and to ensure that too much oil does not get pushed out of the compressor during fast motor conditions. Emerson's new Copeland Scroll variable speed compressors are optimized for high efficiency residential and commercial applications. Our newest compressor technology innovation delivers superior system performance.

Advantages:

Modulation Capability: 900-7200RPM speed range

Efficiency: High system efficiency is obtained by matching capacity with cooling/heating demand. Highest part-load efficiencies of any modulation technology

Reliability: Capable of superior reliability due to active protection provided by the motor control drive